Media centre

Friday 26 Jan 2007

NETWORK RAIL ANNOUNCES FIVE YEAR SIGNALLING FRAMEWORK AGREEMENTS

Region & Route:

National

Network Rail today announced the award of three ‘framework’ agreements under which contracts to the value of £300m can be awarded to deliver individual minor signalling renewals, alterations and enhancements work across the rail infrastructure over the next five years. Typical schemes undertaken through this framework could range from minor safety improvements; such as improving signal sighting by moving a signal; to small renewal and life extension schemes. Today’s agreements complement Network Rail’s recently announced £2 billion investment in six major signalling schemes across the UK. Director of Major Projects and Investments at Network Rail, Simon Kirby, said: "The work undertaken through these agreements is good news for passengers and freight users as they will increase equipment reliability and help to further reduce delays. “Proactively seeking out efficiencies, and using the right supplier for the right job, is critical to the success of these agreements. We have made long term commitments to suppliers, giving them the opportunity to invest in the development of efficient ways of working and cost reduction through the adoption of world-class implementation techniques.” The agreements have been awarded to; Carillion (South Thames), Jarvis (North East) and May Gurney (North Thames). Similar contracts are expected to be awarded early next week for minor signalling schemes in the West Country, the North West and Scotland. The ‘framework’ status means that there are no guaranteed work levels over the five year period.